The Houston City Council heard Monday that a Summersville bank plans to establish a facility at Brushy Creek Road and U.S. 63, pending regulatory approval.
David Barnett, a principal in Community Bank, announced the firm’s plans to initially do business in a modular building that covers about 24 x 70 feet. Barnett, who operates the bank at Summersville and another at Eminence, said he is working to resolve driveway entry issues with the Missouri Department of Transportation. The site once housed a restaurant, and the real estate was recently sold at auction. The bank also has acquired an adjoining tract.
Plans eventually call for construction of a new facility, Barnett told the council.
In other matters, members:
-Heard an economic development report from Ron Reed, who oversees the office, who relayed positive news on several efforts. They include a possible expansion at the Houston Industrial Park and prospects for use of the former Lee Co. building on Spruce Street. Both efforts would result in new jobs for the community.
-Learned that a surplus property auction conducted by the city netted about $16,000.
-Heard that the city is interviewing for an apprentice lineman’s position to assist with an upgrade of the electrical system. The department is moving to a more energy efficient system.
-Approved a $51,471 bid from Diversified Electric Supply for pad-mounted transformers for use at commercial locations. The equipment is higher voltage for replacement, which translates into more efficiencies.
-Learned that an expected electric power increase in April may be less than anticipated. Associated Electric, which supplies Sho-Me Power, is hiking its price 12.5 percent. Sho-Me, which supplies wholesale electrical power to the city, is estimated Houston’s increase at 8.4 percent.